A cozy evening at home calls for something special, and nothing warms the heart quite like a bowl of Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup. As I stirred the rich mixture on the stovetop, the sweet aroma of roasted tomatoes and garlic filled my kitchen, instantly bringing comfort. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a dreamy bisque that’s both hearty and satisfying. With the velvety texture and deep flavors from roasted red bell peppers, it’s perfect for anyone looking to impress dinner guests or treat themselves on a chilly night. Plus, it’s just as easy to whip up as it is to enjoy, making it a go-to in my cooking rotation. Curious about how to bring this delightful dish into your kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup a must-try?
Comforting warmth: This creamy tomato bisque brings an unmatched sense of coziness, perfect for chilly evenings. Flavorful harmony: With roasted tomatoes and basil, you’ll experience an explosion of tastes that impress even the pickiest eaters. Effortlessly simple: Its straightforward preparation makes you feel like a culinary pro without the hassle. Plus, enjoy it with a side of Healthy Cucumber Tomato salad or Gouda Broccoli Soup for a complete meal. Versatile options: Feel free to mix in vegetables or proteins to make it your own! This soup isn’t just food; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl.
Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup Ingredients
• Dive into the soothing goodness of Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup with these essential ingredients!
For the Soup Base
- Ripe Tomatoes (1 lb on the vine, 2 lb heirloom) – The heart of this bisque, they provide natural sweetness and acidity.
- Red Bell Pepper (1) – Roasted for added sweetness and a smoky flavor that enhances the overall richness.
- Garlic (5 cloves) – This aromatic addition gives a mellow, rich flavor, especially when roasted and blended.
- Onion (1 small) – Caramelizes beautifully during roasting, adding a savory depth to the soup.
For Thickening and Flavor
- Butter (1 tbsp) – A luxurious touch that contributes to a rich roux for smooth texture.
- Olive Oil (3 tbsp) – Perfect for roasting, it infuses the veggies with robust flavor while keeping them moist.
- All-Purpose Flour (¼ cup) – Acts as a thickener, transforming the bisque into a creamy delight.
- Tomato Paste (1½ tbsp) – Intensifies the tomato flavor, making the bisque heartier and more flavorful.
- Chicken Broth (4 cups) – Use homemade for optimal richness; this serves as the base of your soup.
Seasoning and Garnish
- Sea Salt and Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors; adjust to suit your taste.
- Sugar (1 tsp) – A pinch of sweetness to counteract the acidity of the tomatoes, if needed.
- Heavy Cream (¼ cup, or more) – Provides a rich, luscious texture that makes this bisque irresistibly creamy.
- Basil (1 tbsp fresh or 1 tsp dried) – Adds a fresh aromatic finish to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Enjoy crafting this delightful Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup—don’t forget to savor every spoonful!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup
Step 1: Preheat and Roast Vegetables
Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then spread out your chopped tomatoes, red bell pepper, onion, and whole garlic cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, tossing to coat. Roast in the oven for 30–40 minutes until the vegetables are caramelized and soft, turning golden brown and fragrant.
Step 2: Blend the Roasted Goodness
Once your vegetables are beautifully roasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 10–15 minutes. Then, transfer the cooled vegetables to a blender or food processor. Blend until you achieve a silky smooth puree, ensuring all chunks are eliminated for that luxurious texture in your creamy tomato bisque.
Step 3: Create the Roux
In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter along with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the butter is bubbling, whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes. This roux will add richness and thickness to your Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup, so keep mixing until it turns a light golden color.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Flavors
Next, add 1½ tablespoons of tomato paste to the roux, stirring for an additional minute to release its deep flavors. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Pour in the blended vegetable puree along with the remaining 3 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine everything smoothly into a cohesive soup base.
Step 5: Season and Simmer
Season your bisque generously with sea salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Once it’s bubbling lightly, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5–10 minutes to enhance the melding of flavors in your creamy tomato bisque.
Step 6: Finish with Cream and Herbs
To complete your Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream and 1 tablespoon of fresh or 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Mix well and allow the soup to simmer for an additional few minutes. Adjust the seasoning if needed, ensuring the soup is balanced and deliciously creamy, ready to be served.
Step 7: Serve and Savor
Ladle your luscious creamy tomato bisque into warm bowls, garnishing with a swirl of olive oil, a drizzle of heavy cream, and a sprig of fresh basil for that perfect finishing touch. This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty sourdough, inviting comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup
Fridge: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, transfer the bisque to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally for even warmth. You can add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy texture if needed.
Serving Tip: Always taste and adjust seasoning after reheating, as flavors can mellow during storage. Enjoy your delightful Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can roast the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the blended puree can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, allowing you to do the hard work ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the roux and add your prepared vegetable puree along with the rest of your ingredients and seasonings. This way, you’ll have a delicious homemade bisque in no time, just as comforting and flavorful as if it was freshly made!
Expert Tips for Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup
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Choose Ripe Tomatoes: Use heirloom tomatoes for a sweet, rich flavor. Mixing different varieties can enhance the overall taste of your creamy tomato bisque soup.
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Don’t Skip the Roast: Roasting vegetables at high heat brings out their natural sweetness and develops smoky flavors; this step is essential for a delicious bisque.
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Blend Smoothly: Ensure all roasted ingredients are fully blended to create a silky texture. This prevents chunks and guarantees a luxurious mouthfeel in your creamy tomato bisque soup.
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Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking, as flavors develop. Balance the acidity of the tomatoes with salt and a touch of sugar for the best results.
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Make it Your Own: Feel free to add extra vegetables or proteins to your bisque, like carrots or shredded chicken, to create a heartier dish that suits your taste.
What to Serve with Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup
A cozy bowl of warm bisque deserves comforting companions to elevate your meal experience.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The melty, buttery goodness of a grilled cheese complements the creamy tomato bisque perfectly, providing a delightful contrast in textures. This classic pairing is like a hug on a plate!
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Crusty Sourdough Bread: Something about dipping warm, crusty sourdough into rich soup creates harmony in every bite. The chewy crust and soft interior soak up the flavors beautifully while adding a rustic charm.
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Simple Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad adds freshness and crunch, balancing the rich, creamy bisque. Toss it with a light vinaigrette to brighten the meal and enhance all the flavors.
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Garlic Bread: The crunchy, herb-infused garlic bread makes a perfect accompaniment to creamy tomato bisque. Its bold flavors and crispy texture create a satisfying experience that pairs wonderfully with soup.
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Cheesy Biscuits: Flaky, cheesy biscuits alongside your bisque invite a comforting texture and flavor. They’re perfect for sopping up every drop of that luscious soup!
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Sparkling Lemonade: The zesty, refreshing taste of sparkling lemonade cleanses the palate between spoonfuls, offering a fun, vibrant contrast to the savory bisque.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a rich chocolate mousse. Its creamy texture and sweet notes create a delightful finale to a hearty meal. Plus, who can resist chocolate?
Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity with this creamy tomato bisque recipe and make it your own!
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Extra Veggies: Add carrots or celery for a richer flavor and nutritional boost. Simply chop and roast them alongside the other veggies.
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Vegetarian Swap: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly option. This substitution maintains the soup’s comforting essence.
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Protein Boost: Incorporate shredded chicken or white beans for a heartier meal. Both options add protein, turning this bisque into a satisfying main dish.
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño during roasting for a zesty kick. This delightful heat can elevate your bisque to new levels.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or oregano for a unique flavor profile. Just sprinkle in your choice when simmering the soup.
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Creamy Alternatives: Try coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version. It adds a subtle sweetness and a twist to the traditional taste.
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Flavorful Garnishes: Top with crispy bacon bits or croutons for a crunchy contrast. This creates a wonderful texture that complements the creaminess.
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Serving Suggestions: Pair this bisque with sides like a Healthy Cucumber Tomato salad or Gouda Broccoli Soup for a comforting meal. They enhance refreshment and balance.
Let your taste journey begin—each variation is a chance to explore the depths of flavor in this beloved comforting dish!
Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my tomatoes are ripe for this bisque?
Look for tomatoes that have a deep color and feel slightly soft to the touch, but not mushy. Ripe tomatoes will have a sweet aroma and should not have dark spots or wrinkles. Heirloom varieties are excellent for this recipe; they offer a rich flavor profile that elevates your creamy tomato bisque soup!
How should I store leftover creamy tomato bisque soup?
Refrigerate your bisque in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled down before sealing to prevent condensation, which can alter its texture. When ready to reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat for the best flavor and consistency.
Can I freeze creamy tomato bisque soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, transfer the cooled bisque to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion. Your creamy tomato bisque soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed for a silky texture.
What should I do if my bisque turns out too thin?
If your creamy tomato bisque soup is thinner than you’d like, you can fix it by simmering it uncovered on the stovetop for a few extra minutes; this will help it reduce and thicken. Alternatively, create a slurry by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water, then stir it into the bisque and cook until it reaches your desired thickness.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you’re preparing this soup for someone with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. Additionally, this recipe can easily be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Always check ingredients to accommodate dietary needs if you’re serving others!
Luscious Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (220°C). Spread out chopped tomatoes, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic cloves on a lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and roast for 30–40 minutes until caramelized.
- Let roasted vegetables cool for 10–15 minutes, then blend in a blender or food processor until silky smooth.
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil. Whisk in flour, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes until it turns golden.
- Add tomato paste to the roux and stir for another minute. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of chicken broth, then add blended vegetable puree and remaining chicken broth.
- Season with sea salt, sugar, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5–10 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and basil, simmer for a few minutes more. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve in warm bowls, garnished with olive oil, heavy cream, and fresh basil sprig.
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